Inside a training room at CFK Academy in Kisaasi, Dr. Ahmed Reda delivered a message that went beyond badminton techniques.
For the Egyptian facilitator, the growth of the sport in Africa will depend on developing teachers who can confidently guide and inspire young players.
That message has shaped the ongoing three day Shuttle Time Tutor Course organised by Badminton Uganda in partnership with the Badminton Confederation of Africa.
The workshop has brought together nine participants, including eight Ugandans and one representative from Somalia, as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots badminton development in schools across the region.
Leading the course on behalf of the continental body, Dr. Ahmed Reda said tutors must do more than understand the technical side of badminton.
He explained that the tutors are expected to train school teachers, making communication, confidence and the ability to manage adult learners just as important as coaching skills.
“The game can only grow when knowledge is passed on the right way,” Dr. Reda noted during the sessions.
The Shuttle Time programme is built around a “train-the-trainer” system where certified tutors will mentor teachers, who will in turn introduce badminton to more learners in schools.
Organisers said the programme is intended to create a strong foundation for the sport by producing qualified instructors capable of delivering quality lessons.
Participants are undergoing sessions in communication, interpersonal management, lesson preparation and handling different personalities during training.
They are also being trained on the importance of preparation before sessions, including the use of demonstration videos, rackets and shuttlecocks to improve learning.
Participants welcomed the initiative and thanked Badminton Uganda for what they described as an important step towards improving badminton instruction in schools and communities.
The workshop ends on Wednesday, with successful participants set to receive certification as Shuttle Time specialists expected to help grow the sport across the region.
